Spontaneity and the Slovenian Countryside

“Do you have your bathing suits with you?” Our friend Gregor asked, shifting his gaze from me to Pete, and back again.

“No,” I replied slowly as I was clearly confused. “I thought we were just meeting for coffee.“

“Well, we will go get them then.” And that, we did. Forgetting about schedules, deadlines and a never-ending to-do list, we submitted to being swept away in the name of spontaneous adventure.

And what followed was a most captivating day of exploring a side of Slovenia that we surely would never have gotten to on our own. We weaved through an area known as the Ljubljana Marshes, a protected mass of land just south of the capital city. We hiked, we cooled off in a refreshing river, we pigged out on pork (again), and listened intently to Gregor rattle off facts and tales about his beloved country.

A road trip is best taken with man’s best friend along for the ride. In this case, it was Gregor’s sweet pup Kira.

One of the most striking characteristics of the Slovenian countryside is the many churches perched high up on hills. They sit completely solitary above small villages and can be seen spread out all over the country. Because of their position, the churches were used as secure refuges during times of invasion and war.

This is where folk heroes are made. This small abandoned barn is where famous Slovenian writer Fran Levstik spun his tale about Martin Krpan, a salt smuggler whose brave antics during war rewarded him with special smuggling privileges. Sometimes in Slovenia, it pays to be a badass.

Down a well-trodden path in the forest, we passed a few other locals who took to the river for refreshment from the scorching sun. After only a few minutes, we couldn’t resist it ourselves. Neither could Kira.

We shouldn’t have been surprised at the turn of events in our day. One thing we have learned about our Slovenian friends is to expect anything. Quick meetings turned into day-long events, with some even stretching into the wee morning hours.

We’ve never had to consider bringing our bathing suits to coffee dates before. But now we know.

100 points for spontaneity! What a great day. Slovenia has SO many little secret places! My favourite photo is Kira’s head sticking out the window! I love the motion in it with her pure JOY!! Makes me miss my husky!Chrystal McKay recently posted..A Big Block Box Communist City

For me, exploring new places with friends makes for a perfect weekend. I can imagine how exciting it would have been for you especially when had no idea how your adventure (or should I say a coffee meeting) would turn out to be.
No matter what stage in life we are, it is always fun and rejuvenating to find new places, witness new cultures…and if it is in the company of your friends (and an adorable Kira), there’s no doubt that the trip becomes memorable.Katie recently posted..This I Want To See: Cloud Atlas Extended First Look

Slovenia truly is wonderful. Spent 6 months there with a friend and native, he began every drive, trip and excursion with ‘I suggest we first have a coffee.’ Unfortunately he wasn’t much for swimming so I have to go back and jump in the Soca. Thanks for the post Dalene!